Modernization of the buffer beam of PE2U traction unit electric locomotive

Abstract

Abstract The article presents the main results of a theoretical study on the analysis of the stress-strain state of the construction of the buffer bar of the electric locomotive for the control of the traction unit PE2U. The estimation of the possibility and effectiveness of attachment on the front wall of the buffer beam of a special securing bracket was considered as a separate task. In both cases, the finite element method based on the SCAD for Windows computing system was used. As a result, it was found that in general, the design of the buffer beam does not meet the requirements of the current standards. Up to 5 zones of high stress concentration are present in the structure, which, given the long service life of the machines (up to 40-50 years), are potential places for the development of fatigue damage. In order to balance the stress level, we recommended to strengthen the contact zone of the supports under the automatic coupling with the system of horizontal truss plates. The additional recommendation is to reinforce the lower sheet of the buffer beam structure up to and including its replacement by a sheet of greater thickness. Attachment to the front wall of the buffer beam of a special securing bracket for holding in emergency mode the coupling of the locomotive-car is possible provided that this zone is strengthened by the system of additional truss plates. The total increase in the mass of the buffer beam reaches 350 kg (25 % of the original weight of the buffer beam structure).